Nitrogen fixation is a process where N2 (atmospheric nitrogen) is converted into NH3 (ammonia). This process makes atmospheric nitrogen accessible to living organisms.
Consider Nitrogen Fixation as a translator who helps two people who speak different languages communicate. In this case, the translator is helping atmospheric nitrogen (which plants can't use directly) convert into a form (ammonia) that plants can use.
Nitrification: The biological oxidation of ammonia or ammonium to nitrite followed by the oxidation of these nitrites to nitrates.
Denitrification: The process by which bacteria in soil and water transform nitrate ions back into nitrogen gas, returning it to the atmosphere.
Legumes: A type of plant such as peas and beans that have nodules on their roots containing bacteria capable of nitrogen fixation.
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